At a glance

• Developments in South Africa's immigration framework were front of mind at the 2026 State of the Nation Address.
• This alert highlights key points that impact both employers and employees.
• Employers are encouraged to keep an eye on these developments and stay ahead of any enforcement initiatives by ensuring that the employment of foreign nationals does not fall foul of their obligations in terms of the applicable employment and migration laws.

Below we highlight the key points that impact both employers and employees:

• The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be rolled out to all countries that require a visa, enabling visa applications for tourists to be processed digitally within 24 hours. Key border posts will be redeveloped, and the use of the ETA will be extended to all international airports and the busiest land ports of entry.
• Additional steps will be taken to secure the country’s borders. Funding to strengthen border security will be prioritised, covering infrastructure, technology and people. Drones and other technology are already being used to greater effect along the country’s borders.
• Illegal immigration affects security, stability and economic progress. As a result, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and labour inspectors will enforce immigration and labour laws. Employers hiring foreign nationals without visas will be prosecuted and enforcement measures will increase, with 10,000 new labour...

Read Full Story: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMihAJBVV95cUxNV01zWVZpTjlKMnB0TVNybmxZ...